West Lindsey: Clamping down on fly tipping

Illegal fly tipping cost West Lindsey District Council £49,953 in the last financial year.

The latest figures have been released as the council raises awareness of the effects of environmental crime in its Don’t Mess in West Lindsey campaign.

The month-long campaign, which focuses on a different crime each week, aims to encourage responsible behaviour and clean up our communities.

Fly tipping is a serious crime and one of the most heavily penalised – with those found guilty facing a fine of up to £50,000 and up to 12 months in prison.

Coun Alan Caine, who is championing the council’s campaign, says fly tipping is a particular problem in rural areas.

“People dump waste on the quiet country roads with less risk of being seen,” he said.

“But we need people to realise that it’s just as easy to dispose of this rubbish responsibly – and without the serious impact.”

“Fly tipping not only damages the look of an area, but in itself attracts more waste, can cause hazards to wildlife and water courses and costs the authority many thousands of pounds in taxpayers money each year to clear up,” he added.

Head of localism at West Lindsey District Council, Joanna Riddell, said fly tipping costs the local authority thousands of pounds every year to clear up, as well as making streets and green spaces look unsightly and causing a health hazard.

“The council is committed to cracking down on fly tipping which is why we now have an officer dedicated to dealing with prosecutions,” she said.

“Summergangs Lane has been a fly tipping hot spot for years, and we are determined to put a stop to it.”

“Dumped waste is also a fire hazard, causing a danger to all those who use the Lane and taking up the valuable time of the fire service.”

“We have CCTV cameras monitoring the Lane, and any incidents caught on camera will be dealt with robustly with court action where appropriate.”

“We also urge anyone who has witnessed a fly tip to come forward and give evidence,” she added.

West Lindsey District Council has recently appointed an enforcement officer with the specific role of bringing about prosecutions for the authority.

The council hopes this will help to punish those guilty of the offence and deter others from offending in the first place.

To report fly tipping, call the council on 01427 676676 or go to www.west-lindsey.gov.uk and use the report it facility.

Have you noticed a problem with fly tipping particular areas of the town? Get in touch with us by emailing newsroom@gainsboroughstandard.co.uk and tell us your opinions.